1. Spread them out.

Have more than one empty wall? No problem! Spread out your plates across two walls to create visual interest. Hang them in straight lines around the room or opt for more of a fluid swoop (as shown here), which feels organic and artsy — not stuffy.

2. Stick with a color family.

Keeping both the plates and the wall color in the same family of colors increases the impact of the display tenfold. This exact look is easy to pull off, as traditional blue china in this pattern (often called willow or chinoiserie) is readily available at many flea markets or thrift stores. If you're working with plates you already have, pick out one color and use it to paint your wall before hanging.

3. Choose interesting shapes.

Pieces with special features — like hexagonal platters or ones with fluted edges — add an extra bit of dimension and interest to a plate display. If this example is too girly for you, try something wackier like lobster platters or pineapple-shaped trays. Don't be afraid to have fun with it.